Police Conducting DUI Patrols Wednesday In Escondido

ESCONDIDO, CA — Police are conducting DUI patrols Wednesday night in Escondido.

The patrols will take place from 4 p.m. Wednesday to 1 a.m. Thursday, according to the Escondido Police Department. Officers will look for signs that drivers are under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

"Impaired driving is preventable," Escondido Police Chief Ed Varso said in a statement. "It's a choice. If you've been drinking or (taking) drugs that impair, make the right choice by finding a sober driver or alternate transportation to take you places."

Drivers charged with a first-time DUI face an average of $13,500 in fines and penalties, as well as a suspended license.

Funding for the program was provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.